Curious how a little tech software startup in Austin, Texas can transform the way a business tackles their IT network? Read how one IT pro installed Spiceworks, a free network management solution, and breathed new life into their IT infrastructure.

Andrew Feist was 13 years old when he first discovered Spiceworks as an IT admin volunteer for Pawsibilities, the Humane Society of Akron. Two years later and he’s still going strong as the shelter’s resident tech guru. With Spiceworks, Andrew was able to rein in the Pawsibilities network and simplify their IT operations.

Spiceworks: Can you tell us a little about your background in IT?

Andrew Feist: “Well, I’ve been into computers since I was around 8 or 9 years old. I was always a big fan of Macs because of how easy they are to use. I started at Pawsibilities in the summer of 2010 as a volunteer. My mom works there as well and would bring me in on occasion to do some IT work. I was 13 when I started volunteering and that’s when I discovered Spiceworks. I’m now 15.”

SW: What exactly does Pawsibilities do?

AF: “They’re the animal shelter humane society of Akron. They take in sick and stray animals and rehabilitate and adopt them out into the community. My mom is an accountant and assistant executive director at the shelter. I’ll probably continue volunteering until I graduate high school, and if I stay in IT, I’ll definitely carry Spiceworks with me into my first job.”

SW: What IT software program was the shelter using before you learned about Spiceworks?

AF: “They didn’t even have a server before I started, but they moved locations and finally got one, which gave them the foundation to do what they wanted. There was a workstation where the accountant hosted a general file share and a line of business applications – that folder was shared to computers that needed them. Everything was wireless – every computer had a wireless card and was connected to the router.”

SW: How did you first hear about Spiceworks, and what intrigued you about the software?

AF: “I was just searching online because I wanted to know what devices were on our network, and I came across Spiceworks. I basically just downloaded it, tested it out, put it on the server, and its been there ever since.”

SW: Did you have any hesitations/concerns about installing Spiceworks? How did you get over those feelings?

AF: “I didn’t have any hesitations – just wanted to make sure it was safe and wouldn’t screw things up. I was pretty relieved once I saw it working.”

SW: What was your first impression of Spiceworks?

AF: “I remember thinking how convenient it was – I could see a general overview of everything happening in the building, and I could see any changes on any device connected.”

SW: Have you recommended Spiceworks to your colleagues and friends?

AF: “I haven’t been able to make any connections in the field yet. I would definitely recommend it if I had that conversation and someone was looking for quality IT software.”

SW: Is there one feature unique to Spiceworks that you couldn’t live without?

AF: “The Community itself. You can go on and ask a question if you’re stuck on something and there’s a lot of people who are willing to help you with that issue. I remember one instance: Our server has a website where users can go on and remotely access the system. Someone replied and offered to call and help. They actually fixed the issue – remotely. It was pretty great.”

SW: Do you feel that your age has been a factor at all when you participate in the Community?

AF: “I think I’m pretty much treated as an equal in the Community – not even sure anyone knows my age. Everyone is extremely friendly.”

SW: Are there situations where you’d feel it necessary to return to paid software?

AF: “No. I think it completely fulfills our needs – there’s no reason why I would need to pay for something to do the exact same thing or possibly even less than Spiceworks does.”

Read more Spiceworks Stories for a glimpse into how Spiceworks is making a difference for other IT pros just like you!

Got a Spiceworks success story you’d like to share with your fellow IT comrades? Drop a note to andrewb@spiceworks.com – who knows, your 15 minutes could be just around the corner!

The subject for this article volunteered to be interviewed and featured and represents a true account of a Spiceworks user’s experience. Quotes were edited for accuracy and brevity.

SW: Do you feel that your age has been a factor at all when you participate in the Community?
AF: “I think I’m pretty much treated as an equal in the Community – not even sure anyone knows my age. Everyone is extremely friendly.”

Awesome story Master Feist. You are proof that age is just a number when it comes to wisdom and maturity. B-)

Heck yea! Start em young using Spiceworks and the IT world will be a much better place! Thanks Andrew - I've seen you in the community and I think I am surprised as well of your age and how you present yourself - maybe you can be an example for some of us! :-P

Heck yea! Start em young using Spiceworks and the IT world will be a much better place! Thanks Andrew - I've seen you in the community and I think I am surprised as well of your age and how you present yourself - maybe you can be an example for some of us! :-P